Progress visible on Daniels Parkway diverging diamond project at I-75 interchange

Crews will close the interstate ramps and some lanes on Daniels Parkway in Lee County starting Monday night as part of the ongoing diverging diamond project at the I-75 interchange, which has been under construction for six months.

The closures will begin at 9 p.m. for the ramps and at 7 p.m. for some lanes, lasting until 7 a.m. tomorrow. The work is aimed at easing congestion in the area and accommodating future growth.

Laura Paradowski with Mobility City, a business in the area, said her team frequently experiences backups on Daniels Parkway.

“Our vans are out there so they can kind of get stuck on the way back," Paradowski said. "In the afternoons, it gets a lot worse."

Laynee Underwood of Allure Head Spa and Studios expressed excitement about the project.

“Now that the diamond shape has been on Colonial for some time, it makes life so much easier, so much better to go on Colonial. I don't dread it anymore," Underwood said. "I'm very excited to be able to have that here as well."

While the diamond won't be open until some time in 2028, crews are currently widening the interstate ramps and eastbound lanes of Daniels Parkway. Businesses like Mobility City hope construction and the end result won’t hinder accessibility for their customers.

“Just hoping that it's easy to find all the businesses," Paradowski said. "Sometimes on Colonial, there are some businesses that if I miss the turn, I'm going — I guess I'm going somewhere else for lunch today."

FDOT leaders are working to ensure drivers can navigate the area during construction. Janella Newsome, a public information specialist for FDOT, said she's driven through diverging diamonds across the state.

“The minute I started to drive through the DDIs, you can clearly see the signage," said Janella Newsome of FDOT. "They tell you, follow the lines, read the signs and you'll be fine."

While she has concerns about construction, Paradowski said she is hopeful the project will reduce traffic trouble near I-75.

“It does seem there's like a lot of accidents at our light near 75," Paradowski said. "Hopefully, there's not more as they're like changing the roads every few days. Hopefully it makes for more flow."

Drivers are advised to plan ahead for Monday's closures and keep the changes in mind for their commute.